Wayne Gonzales: Light to Dark / Dark to Light is the artist’s first solo museum show in the United States. This exhibition of paintings by nationally recognized Louisiana artist Wayne Gonzales spans from early portraits to never before seen work. Highlights include New Orleans native Lee Harvey Oswald to paintings of the Louisiana Rigolets.

“It’s a proud moment for New Orleans that a native son is returning home to have his first major U.S. exhibition here where his inspiration started,” said NOMA Director Susan Taylor. “Wayne’s first interaction with art was at NOMA and no doubt his exhibition will inspire young artists.”

The exhibition features paintings depicting crowds, which Gonzales is well‐known for, including waiting crowds in the wake of Hurricane Katrina. The newest painting is a large blue Seated Crowd completed this year, depicts a passive audience in a movie theater. Gonzales will also paint two original murals on the walls of the galleries that will contrast idyllic scenes of nature with war images. Wayne Gonzales: Light to Dark / Dark to Light is organized by Miranda Lash, Curator of Modern and Contemporary Art at NOMA.